Have a free afternoon while passing through Antigua? Go and create your own jewelry using the traditional jade stone of Guatemala!
The Xibalba Jade Workshop was one of the best experiences I had in Antigua so far. Yes, I love to eat and drink and socialize. And Antigua is great for that. But this was a truly unique activity for an outing with friends that was so much more meaningful.
During the Xibalba Jade Workshop you start by picking your own piece of Jade. There are tons of stones to choose from so you can select the color that is perfect for you. From there you actually get to design, carve, polish, drill and clean your stone. From start to finish you get to feel like a jewelry designer.
While you are working on your jewel, they also share with you interesting information about the Maya culture and the characteristics of Jade and other minerals found in Guatemala. It is so important to keep the artisan traditions alive and find ways to incorporate them into our modern lifestyle.
After finishing your piece of jewelry you can browse their collection or find little nooks and crannies to take some shots. The entire store is "instagramable" and fun place to take pictures! Here are some more captures from that day!
Want other tips on places to go in Antigua? Read my other Blog: Top Places to Eat, Drink and Hang like a Local! #thingstodoinantigua